I think a lot of the "hard break in" stuff is refrenced from http://www.mototuneusa.com/break_in_secrets.htm

In the early 90's my grandfather and uncle each bought identicle four wheelers at the same time. My grandfather putted around on his and babied it. My uncle rode his like he stole it, right from the get go. While they were both stock, my uncle's always felt faster.

My first brand new vehicle was a '97 Mustang GT, during my test drive the dealer told be to "get on it", and I did. Being about 21 or so, I don't think that first set of tires lasted a year. I couldn't help myself, I broke 'em loose at just about every stop. That car ran nice and strong for about 140,000 miles when I traded it in on my current Mustang.